Why Chelsea vs Aston Villa has been given unusual kick-off time as Stamford Bridge clash starts early

12/01/2024 06:09 AM

Chelsea and Aston Villa will have to be ready for an earlier kick-off than usual this afternoon when they meet at Stamford Bridge. 

The Blues are unbeaten in four heading into this game and they have the chance to capitalise on Manchester City's recent woes. 

Enzo Maresca's side sit only a point behind the reigning champions while they also won't want the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to extend further. 

Villa will prove to be a tough opponent, but Unai Emery's men are having a bad spell and they haven't won in the league since October 19. 

It is set to be an exciting meeting, but fans will need to make sure to check the schedule as there's going to be a unique kick-off time…

Chelsea vs Aston Villa: Kick-off time 

This Premier League clash is scheduled to kick-off at 1:30pm today.

Usually, a typical start time on a Sunday is half an hour later at 2pm.

But this game has been switched to a unique slot, along with Manchester United vs Everton and Tottenham vs Fulham.

There has been no official reason confirmed for this change, however, it is likely due to the fact that Liverpool vs Manchester City will take place at 4pm. 

That blockbuster has also been moved earlier because it has become a high-risk fixture for Merseyside Police over fan safety concerns.

This game and the meeting at Anfield are on Sky Sports this weekend, so to make sure coverage doesn't overlap, they moved Chelsea vs Aston Villa accordingly. 

Announcing the time switch in September, a Chelsea statement revealed that the game would be broadcast on television and that it would be taking place on a Sunday. 

It read: "Sky Sports will also broadcast the home games against Arsenal and Aston Villa in November, which were both already set to be moved to a Sunday fixture due to our UEFA Conference League matches the preceding Thursday."

As mentioned in the statement, this game was always going to be on a Sunday due to Chelsea and Aston Villa's European exploits. 

The Blues faced German side Heidenheim on Thursday night, winning 2-0 while Villa drew with Juventus on Wednesday. 

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will keep you up to date with all the action this weekend. 

Score updates from Stamford Bridge will be on the Sunday Session with Sam Matterface. 

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream. 

You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

Check out all the best free bets and betting offers from talkSPORT and our partners